U.S. patent application number 10/431936 was filed with the patent office on 2003-10-16 for cleaning implements.
Invention is credited to Benecke, Arnold George, Boyer, Christopher Todd, Campbell, Kevin Michael, Kleiss, Roderick Edward, Kunkler, Jeffery Scott, Lesley, Paul Michael, Zwart, Kevin James.
Application Number | 20030194259 10/431936 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22693833 |
Filed Date | 2003-10-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030194259 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kunkler, Jeffery Scott ; et
al. |
October 16, 2003 |
Cleaning implements
Abstract
A cleaning implement is provided. The cleaning implement
includes a liquid delivery system for providing a cleaning liquid
to a surface to be cleaned having a canister for storing a liquid,
an electrical motor driving a pump, and a voltage source for
engerizing the electric motor. A support head is pivotally attached
to the handle for releasably receiving a cleaning sheet. The handle
includes a switch and is formed from a plurality of handle
sections. Each handle section has at least one electrical connector
which is electrically connected with an electrical connector of an
adjacent handle section so that the switch can activate the
electrical motor. The support head can be configured to allow
visual inspection of the cleaning sheet through the support head
during use. The canister is provided with plurality of side walls
and vent valve having a cracking pressure of at least about 0.6
Kpa, wherein the canister is substantially in the form of a
parallelogram in a plan view cross section and wherein one or more
of the side walls has a plurality of grooves.
Inventors: |
Kunkler, Jeffery Scott;
(Simi Valley, CA) ; Boyer, Christopher Todd; (Oak
Park, IL) ; Zwart, Kevin James; (Chicago, IL)
; Benecke, Arnold George; (Indian Springs, OH) ;
Kleiss, Roderick Edward; (Shoreview, MN) ; Campbell,
Kevin Michael; (Chicago, IL) ; Lesley, Paul
Michael; (Chicago, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
WINTON HILL TECHNICAL CENTER - BOX 161
6110 CENTER HILL AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45224
US
|
Family ID: |
22693833 |
Appl. No.: |
10/431936 |
Filed: |
May 8, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10431936 |
May 8, 2003 |
|
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09188604 |
Nov 9, 1998 |
|
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6206058 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
401/138 ;
401/139; 401/140 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 13/22 20130101;
C11D 3/43 20130101; C11D 3/505 20130101; B67D 3/0032 20130101; A47L
13/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
401/138 ;
401/139; 401/140 |
International
Class: |
A47L 013/30; A46B
011/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A cleaning implement, comprising: a liquid delivery system for
providing a cleaning liquid to a surface to be cleaned; a handle; a
support head pivotally attached to said handle for releasably
receiving a cleaning sheet, wherein a portion of said support head
is configured to allow visual inspection of the cleaning sheet
through said support head.
2. The cleaning implement of claim 1, wherein said portion of said
support head comprises a cut-out in said support head.
3. The cleaning implement of claim 1, wherein said portion of said
support head is transparent.
4. A cleaning implement, comprising: a liquid delivery system for
providing a cleaning liquid to a surface to be cleaned having an
electrical motor and a voltage source; a handle; a support head
pivotally attached to said handle for releasably receiving a
cleaning sheet, wherein said support head comprises a substantially
rigid upper plate and a substantially rigid lower plate with a
cavity therebetween.
5. The cleaning implement of claim 4, wherein said lower plate
further comprises a pair of opposed holders for receiving a pin to
secure said handle to said support head.
6. A cleaning implement, comprising: a liquid delivery system for
providing a cleaning liquid to a surface to be cleaned including a
canister for storing a cleaning liquid having a plurality of side
walls and vent valve having a cracking pressure of at least about
0.4 Kpa, wherein said canister is substantially in the form of a
parallelogram in a plan view cross section and wherein said side
walls have a deflection of less than about 1.5 mm during use; a
handle; and a support head pivotally attached to said handle for
releasably receiving a cleaning sheet.
7. The cleaning implement of claim 6, wherein said canister is
formed by blow molding or injection blow molding and said side
walls have a thickness of less than about 1 mm.
8. The cleaning implement of claim 7, wherein at least one of said
side walls has a plurality of grooves.
8. The cleaning implement of claim 8, wherein said grooves have a
spacing of at least about one groove per 15 mm.
10. The cleaning implement of claim 9, wherein said grooves have a
length of at least about 60 mm, a depth of at least about 2 mm, and
a width of at least about 2 mm.
11. A kit, comprising: a mop head; a universal joint connected to
said mop head; a canister housing connected to said universal joint
having an electrical motor and pump; and a handle comprising at
least one handle section and having a switch, wherein said handle
is electrically disconnected from said housing when disassembled
from said canister housing but which is electrically connected to
said canister housing when assembled with said canister
housing.
12. The kit of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of handle
sections.
13. The kit of claim 11, further comprising a container having a
length of less than about 650 mm, a width of less than about 200
mm, and a height of less than about 125 mm for storing said mop
head, said handle, and said canister housing.
14. The kit of claim 11, wherein said at least one handle section
has a length of less than about 75 cm.
15. A spray appliance, comprising an electrical motor having a
shaft and a casing; a gear pump directly coupled to said casing of
said electrical motor; and wherein the combination of said gear
pump and said electrical motor has an efficiency of at least about
5% and wherein said gear pump is compatible with a liquid having a
pH of about 2 and a liquid having a pH of about 14.
16. The spray appliance of claim 15, wherein said gear pump further
comprises a drive gear directly attached to said shaft of said
electrical motor.
17. The spray appliance of claim 16, further comprising at least
two screws disposed on either side of said drive gear, said two
screws engaging said casing of said electrical motor.
18. The spray appliance of claim 17, wherein the distance between
said screws is between about 9 mm and about 27 mm.
19. The spray appliance of claim 15, wherein said drive gear is
formed from an acetal copolymer.
20. A spray appliance, comprising: a pump; an electrical motor
driving said pump; an electrical pickup in electrical communication
with said electrical motor; at least one battery having a positive
terminal and a negative terminal, wherein said battery is disposed
in a battery cradle and wherein said battery has a first position
and a second position within said battery cradle; and a pair of
prongs attached to said battery cradle, wherein at least a portion
of said positive terminal of said battery passes between said
prongs to engage said electrical pickup when said battery is in
said first position and said prongs prevent contact between said
negative terminal of said battery and said electrical pickup when
said battery is in said second position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PATENTS
[0001] This application is related to the following applications
and patents, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein: U.S. application Ser. No. 09/188,604 filed Nov. 9, 1998 by
Nagel et al.; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/201,618 filed Nov. 30,
1998 by Benecke; U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/110,476
filed Dec. 1, 1998 by Policicchio et al.; U.S. Provisional
Application Serial No. 60/156,286 filed Sep. 27, 1999 by Sherry et
al.; U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/162,935 filed Nov.
2, 1999 by Policicchio et al.; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/381,550
filed Mar. 16, 1998 by Policicchio et al.; U.S. Provisional
Application Serial No. 60/156,289 filed Sep. 27, 1999 by R. A.
Godfroid et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,508 issued Oct. 5, 1999 to S.
A. Holt et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,003,191 issued Dec. 21, 1999 to A.
E. Sherry et al.; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/756,999 filed
Nov. 26, 1996 by S. A. Holt et al.; PCT Application No. US99/10971
filed May 18, 1999; PCT Application No. US99/27893 filed Nov. 24,
1999; U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/129,949 filed Apr.
19, 1999 by R. A. Godfroid et al.; and U.S. application Ser. No.
09/037,379 filed Mar. 10, 1998 by Policicchio et al.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of cleaning
implements, and, more particularly, to the field of electrically
operated mops for spraying cleaning liquids onto a floor.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The literature is replete with products capable of cleaning
hard surfaces such as ceramic tile floors, hardwood floors, counter
tops and the like. In the context of cleaning floors, numerous
devices are described comprising a handle and some means for
absorbing a fluid cleaning composition. Such devices include those
that are reusable, including mops containing cotton strings,
cellulose and/or synthetic strips, sponges, and the like. While
these mops are successful in removing many soils from hard
surfaces, they typically require the inconvenience of performing
one or more rinsing steps during use to avoid saturation of the
material with dirt, soil, and other residues. These mops therefore
require the use of a separate container to perform the rinsing
step(s), and typically these rinsing steps fail to sufficiently
remove dirt residues. This can result in redeposition of
significant amounts of soil during subsequent passes of the mop.
Furthermore, as reusable mops are used over time, they become
increasingly soiled and malodorous. This negatively impacts
subsequent cleaning performance.
[0004] While there is a desire to provide mops which are convenient
and adept at soil removal, there is a further need to provide these
mops in a form which is easy to ship and assemble by a consumer.
Still further, there is a desire to provide cleaning mops which
facilitate proper assembly by a consumer and which are ergonomic
and easy to use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] A cleaning implement is provided. The cleaning implement
includes a liquid delivery system for providing a cleaning liquid
to a surface to be cleaned having a canister for storing a liquid,
an electrical motor driving a pump, and a voltage source for
engerizing the electric motor. A support head is pivotally attached
to the handle for releasably receiving a cleaning sheet. The handle
includes a switch and is formed from a plurality of handle
sections. Each handle section has at least one electrical connector
which is electrically connected with an electrical connector of an
adjacent handle section so that the switch can activate the
electrical motor. The support head can be configured to allow
visual inspection of the cleaning sheet through the support head
during use. The canister is provided with plurality of side walls
and vent valve having a cracking pressure of at least about 0.4
Kpa, wherein the canister is substantially in the form of a
parallelogram in a plan view cross section and wherein one or more
of the side walls have a plurality of grooves.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed
that the present invention will be better understood from the
following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred floor mop made
in accordance with the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is front elevational view of the floor mop of FIG.
1;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of the floor mop of FIG.
1;
[0010] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an exemplary cleaning sheet
suitable for use with the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a liquid delivery
system suitable for use with the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the first handle section of
the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the first handle
section of the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the second handle section of
the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the second handle
section of the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the third handle section,
canister housing, and mop head of the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the of the third
handle section, housing, and mop head of the floor mop of FIG.
1;
[0018] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a pair of
electrical connectors made in accordance with the present invention
and suitable for use with the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the pair of
electrical connectors of FIG. 12, wherein the opposite side is
illustrated;
[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a perspective view of a
pair of locking connectors made in accordance with the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 15 is an end view of the locking connector;
[0022] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional side view of the locking
connector of FIG. 15, taken along line 16-16 thereof;
[0023] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a lower plate of the mop
head of FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional side view of the handle of the
first handle section of the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0025] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a bottle made in accordance
with another aspect of the present invention and suitable for use
with the floor mop of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional top plan view of the bottle of
FIG. 19, taken along line 20-20 thereof;
[0027] FIG. 21 is a top plan view of a kit, including a package,
made in accordance with the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the kit of FIG.
21;
[0029] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of an electrical motor, gear
pump, seal, and top plate made in accordance with yet another
aspect of the present invention and suitable for use with the floor
mop of FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 24 is a top view of the combination of FIG. 22, wherein
the top plate has been removed for clarity;
[0031] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the combination of
FIG. 23, taken along line 25-25 thereof, wherein the top plate has
been included for completeness;
[0032] FIG. 26 is top planar view of a battery cradle from the
floor mop of FIG. 1 made in accordance with still another aspect of
the present invention, wherein four batteries are disposed within
the cradle in a first position;
[0033] FIG. 27 is a top planar of the battery cradle of FIG. 26,
wherein the four batteries are disposed in a second position;
and
[0034] FIG. 28 is a front elevational view of the battery cradle of
FIG. 26.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0035] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein like numerals
indicate the same elements throughout the views. As described more
fully hereafter, the present invention is directed to cleaning
implements for use with hard surfaces such as floors, and the like.
The cleaning implement is used in combination with a liquid
cleaning composition (although other liquid compositions, such as
waxes, etc., can be used with cleaning implements of the present
invention) and a cleaning substrate, such as a removable pad or
sheet, for absorbing and removing the cleaning composition and
particulates (e.g., dirt, soil, dust, etc.) from the hard
surface.
[0036] Preferred liquid cleaning compositions, examples of which
are described in greater detail in U.S. Provisional Application
Serial No. 60/156,286 filed Sep. 27, 1999 by Sherry et al. and U.S.
Provisional Application Serial No. 60/162,935 filed Nov. 2, 1999 by
Policicchio et al., can comprise:
[0037] (a) optionally, from about 0.001% to about 0.5% by weight of
the composition of surfactant, preferably selected from the group
consisting of alkylpolysaccharides, alkyl ethoxylates, alkyl
sulfonates, and mixtures thereof,
[0038] (b) optionally, hydrophilic polymer, preferably less than
about 0.5% by weight of the composition;
[0039] (c) optionally, organic solvent, preferably from about 0.25%
to about 7% by weight of the composition and preferably having a
boiling point of from about 120.degree. C. to about 180.degree.
C.;
[0040] (d) optionally, from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of
the composition of mono- or polycarboxylic acid;
[0041] (e) optionally, from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of
the composition of odor control agent, preferably cyclodextrin;
[0042] (f) optionally, a source of peroxide, preferably from about
0.05% to about 5% by weight of the composition and preferably
selected from the group consisting of benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen
peroxide, and mixtures thereof;
[0043] (g) optionally, from about 0.001% to about 0.1% by weight of
the composition of thickening polymer;
[0044] (h) aqueous solvent system, preferably at least about 80% by
weight of the composition;
[0045] (i) optionally, suds suppressor;
[0046] (j) optionally, from about 0.005% to about 0.2% by weight of
the composition of a perfume comprising:
[0047] (i) optionally, from about 0.05% to about 90% by weight of
the perfume of volatile, hydrophilic perfume material;
[0048] (ii) optionally, at least about 0.2% by weight of the
perfume of volatile, hydrophobic perfume material;
[0049] (iii) optionally, less than about 10% by weight of the
perfume of residual, hydrophilic perfume material;
[0050] (iv) less than about 10% by weight of the perfume of
residual, hydrophobic perfume material;
[0051] (k) optionally, a detergent adjuvant, preferably selected
from the group consisting of detergency builder, buffer,
preservative, antibacterial agent, colorant, bleaching agents,
chelants, enzymes, hydrotropes, and mixtures thereof.
[0052] The cleaning implement is also used in combination with a
cleaning substrate, such as a sheet, a premoistened wipe, or other
woven or non-woven fabric, examples of which are also described in
greater detail in U.S. Provisional Application Serial No.
60/162,935 filed Nov. 2, 1999 by Policicchio et al. and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,960,508 issued Oct. 5, 1999 to S. A. Holt et al., to remove
the liquid cleaning composition and particulates from the hard
surface. A preferred cleaning substrate suitable for use with the
present invention can comprise:
[0053] (a) at least one absorbent layer;
[0054] (b) optionally, a liquid pervious scrubbing layer; wherein
the liquid pervious scrubbing layer is preferably an apertured
formed film, more preferably a macroscopically expanded
three-dimensional plastic web, having tapered or funnel-shaped
apertures and/or surface aberrations and preferably comprising a
hydrophobic material;
[0055] (c) optionally, an attachment layer, wherein the attachment
layer preferably comprises a clear or translucent material, more
preferably a clear or translucent polyethylene film, and wherein
the attachment layer preferably comprises loop and/or hook material
for attachment to a support head of a handle of a cleaning
implement;
[0056] (d) optionally, multiple planar surfaces;
[0057] (e) optionally, at least one functional cuff, preferably at
least one free-floating, looped functional cuff;
[0058] (f) optionally, a density gradient throughout at least one
absorbent layer; wherein the density gradient preferably comprises
a first absorbent layer having a density of from about 0.01
g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.15 g/cm.sup.3, preferably from about 0.03
g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.1 g/cm.sup.3, and more preferably from about
0.04 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.06 g/cm.sup.3, and a second absorbent
layer having a density of from about 0.04 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.2
g/cm.sup.3, preferably from about 0.1 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.2
g/cm.sup.3, and more preferably from about 0.12 g/cm.sup.3 to about
0.17 g/cm.sup.3; wherein the density of the first absorbent layer
is about 0.04 g/cm.sup.3, preferably about 0.07 g/cm.sup.3, and
more preferably about 0.1 g/cm.sup.3, less than the density of the
second absorbent layer;
[0059] (g) optionally, at least one adhesive scrubbing strip,
preferably comprising a material selected from the group consisting
of nylon, polyester, polypropylene, abrasive material, and mixtures
thereof; and
[0060] (h) optionally, perfume carrier complex, preferably selected
from the group consisting of cyclodextrin inclusion complex, matrix
perfume microcapsules, and mixtures thereof, wherein the perfume
carrier complex is preferably located in an absorbent layer.
[0061] The various layers and/or elements can be bonded in a
variety of ways including, but not limited to, adhesive bonding,
thermal bonding, ultra sonic bonding, and the like. The various
layers and/or elements can be assembled to form a cleaning pad
either by hand or by a conventional line converting process known
in the art. While these are examples of preferred liquid cleaning
compositions and cleaning substrates, it will be appreciated that
the present invention can be used with other cleaning compositions
and substrates without departing from scope of the invention.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, an exemplary cleaning
implement made in accordance with the present invention and in the
form of a floor mop 20 is illustrated. The floor mop 20 comprises a
handle 22 formed from a plurality of sections, a mop head 24
attached to the handle by a universal joint 25, and a liquid
delivery system which includes a spray nozzle 26 attached to the
upper plate 27 of the mop head 24 adjacent to its leading edge 29
such that the spray nozzle 26 can move in the direction of the mop
head 24 when the mop 20 is maneuvered. While the spray nozzle 26 is
preferably attached independent of the handle 22 for directional
control of the spray nozzle 26, it will be appreciated that the
spray nozzle can be attached at locations other than the mop head
24. For example, the spray nozzle 26 can be attached to the
universal joint 25 or the handle 22.
[0063] As previously discussed, the cleaning implements of the
present invention use a removeably attached cleaning substrate 28,
such as the tri-layer cleaning substrate illustrated in FIG. 4, for
absorbing the cleaning liquid and particulates from the surface to
be cleaned. The cleaning substrate 28 can be mechanically attached
in a variety ways to mop head 24. For example, adhesives, snaps,
hook and loop fasteners, etc. can be used. Alternatively,
attachment structures such as those described in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/374,714 entitled CLEANING IMPLEMENTS HAVING
STRUCTURES FOR RETAINING A SHEET, filed Aug. 13, 1999, the
substance of which is fully incorporated herein by reference, can
be incorporated onto the upper surface of the mop head 24.
[0064] Referring to schematic FIG. 5 and FIG. 10 for ease of
discussion, the liquid delivery system further includes a canister
34 storing the liquid cleaning composition 35 and a gear pump 36
which is driven by an electric motor 38. A canister housing 40
attached to the handle 22 removeably receives the canister 34. The
canister housing 40 houses the gear pump 36, the electric motor 38,
and a voltage source 42 which is used to power the electric motor
38. The voltage source 42 is preferably a plurality of batteries
which are stored in a battery cradle 43, wherein the battery cradle
43 forms part of the canister housing 40. The voltage source 42 is
connected in series with a switch 44 attached to the handle 22.
While the pump 36 is preferably provided in the form of a gear
pump, other pumps and structures for pressurizing the liquid 35 to
deliver the liquid to the spray nozzle 26 can be used. For example,
vane, piston, lobe, or diaphragm pumps would be acceptable for use.
In addition, aerosols and other compressed gas delivery systems can
be used in place of an electric or manually driven pump. The gear
pump 36 is attached to a mounting plate 46 disposed within the
canister housing 40. The mounting plate 46 also has a recessed
portion 48 for receiving the canister 34. The gear pump has a probe
49 attached to the top thereof which interfaces with the canister
34 to transfer the liquid cleaning composition 35 from the canister
34 to the inlet 52 of the gear pump 36. The canister 34 includes a
venting check valve 51 for venting the canister 34 during use and a
liquid transfer check valve 53 through which the probe 49 passes
for transferring the liquid cleaning composition from the canister
34 to the gear pump 36.
[0065] A flexible fluid line 56 is connected to the pump outlet 58,
which directs the liquid cleaning composition 35 from the pump
outlet 58 to the spray nozzle 26. A discharge check valve 60 is
located upstream of the spray nozzle 26. The check valve 60 may be
a spring loaded ball valve or other type of check valve commonly
known in the art, such as a membrane valve. The purpose of the
check valve 60 is to limit dribbling of liquid cleaning composition
35 from the spray nozzle 26. The cracking pressure of the check
valve 60 should be sufficient so that the liquid entering the spray
nozzle 26 has sufficient energy to drive the fluid through the
spray nozzle 26 and break the fluid up into fine droplets.
[0066] The electric motor 38 is preferably a direct current
electric motor. The electric motor 38 has two electrical
connections 62 and 64 to which is preferably connected the voltage
source 42, which can be provided in the form of a plurality of
batteries. When the switch 44 is closed, as shown in FIG. 5, a
current flows through the electric motor 38 which rotates the gears
of the pump 36 to generate a pressure sufficient to open the check
valve 60 so that the liquid 35 can flow through the spray nozzle
26. An exemplary motor is a 3 volt to 6 volt series 200 or 300
motor manufactured by Mabuchi Industry Company, Ltd. of China while
an exemplary spray nozzle is manufactured by Bowles Fluidics
Corporation of Columbia, Mo. This exemplary spray nozzle is more
fully described in one or more of U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,508,206 to
Stouffer, issued Apr. 2, 1985; 5,788,394 to Hess et al., issued
Aug. 4, 1998; and 5,860,603 to Raghu et al., issued Jan. 19, 1999,
the substances of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.
The handle 22, canister housing 37, mop head 24, universal joint
25, and pump gears can be injection molded using thermoplastic
materials as is known in the art. Preferably, the canister housing
37 and mop head 24 are formed from polypropylene, the universal
joint 25 and the pump gears are preferably formed from an acetal
polymer. The handle 22 can be formed from aluminum by extrusion.
The voltage source 39 is preferably four AA, 1.5 volt Panasonic
Alkaline Plus batteries which are connected in series.
[0067] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the
handle 22 preferably comprises three handle sections 70, 72, and 74
which are interconnected to form the handle 22. As seen in FIGS. 6
and 7, the upper or first handle section 70 includes a handle grip
76 attached to a tube 77, the switch 44 mounted in the handle grip
76, an external electrical connector 78, and a locking connector 80
having prongs 82. The external electrical connector 78 is connected
to the tube 77 by a screw 83. Two electrical wires 84 disposed
within the tube 77 interconnect the switch 44 with the external
electrical connector 78, these wires being each only partially
visible in FIG. 6 for clarity. The locking connector 80 is
preferably offset a distance from the end 81 of the first handle
section 70. More preferably, the locking connector 80 is disposed
at least about 20 mm from the end 81 of the first handle section
70. Most preferably, the locking connector 80 is disposed between
about 20 mm and about 150 mm from the end 81 of the first handle
section 70. The locking connector 80 is secured to the tube 77 by a
screw 85 through a hole 87 in the tube 77.
[0068] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the middle or second handle
section 72 includes a tube 89 and two internal electrical
connectors 86 disposed within the tube 89 adjacent, and preferably
offset from, each end 88 of the tube 89. Electrical wires 90
disposed within the tube 89 interconnect the internal electrical
connectors 86. More preferably, each internal electrical connector
86 is disposed at least about 15 mm from its respective adjacent
end 88 of the tube 89. Most preferably, each internal electrical
connector is disposed between about 15 mm and about 240 mm from its
respective adjacent end 88. Locking connectors 92 having holes 94
are disposed at each end 88 of the tube 89. As discussed more fully
hereafter, the prongs 82 of the locking connector 80 engage the
holes 94 of the locking connector 92 to secure the first handle
section 70 to the second handle section 72. The internal electrical
connectors 86 are secured to the tube 89 by screws 83 while the
locking connectors 92 are secured to the tube 89 by screws 91.
[0069] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the third handle section 74
has an external electrical connector 78 disposed at the end 92 of a
tube 93. A locking connector 80 having prongs 82 is disposed at
about the midpoint of the tube 93 of the third handle section 76. A
screw 98 passes through the locking connector 80 and through the
third tube 93 to secure both to the canister housing 40. One of the
electrical wires 88 is connected to the voltage source 42 and the
other electrical wire 88 is connected to the electric motor 38. The
electrical wires 88 are disposed within the tube 93 and canister
housing 40. An interconnecting electrical wire 100 disposed within
the canister housing 40 is connected between the voltage source 42
and the electric motor 38 to complete the electrical circuit
between the voltage source 42, electric motor 38, and switch
44.
[0070] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the configuration of the
internal and external electrical connectors 86 and 78 will now be
described in greater detail. As will be appreciated, the
configuration of the external electrical connector 78 is a mirror
image of the configuration of the internal electrical connector 86.
As such, the arrangement of the internal electrical connector 86
will be described herein by way of example for all the electrical
connectors. The internal electrical connector has first portion 101
to which is attached a plug 102 with a plurality of ribs 104
extending radially from a substantially cylindrical, hollow post
105. The ribs 104 assist in transmitting torque between the handle
sections when assembled. A second portion 105 having an outside
diameter which is less than the outside diameter of the first
portion 101 is connected to the first portion 101. A split
electrical collar 106 which is connected to one of the electrical
wires is located within the plug 102 and passes through the first
and second portions of the electrical connector as well as least a
portion of said hollow post 105. Blind screw holes 107A and 107B
(FIG. 13) are disposed in both the first and second portions of the
electrical connector for threadably receiving the screws 83.
Preferably, a screw 83 engages blind screw hole 107A of the
internal electrical connector 86 while a screw 83 engages blind
screw hole 107B of external electrical connector 78 so that each
electrical connector is securely attached to its respective tube.
An electrical pin 108 which passes through the first and second
portions 101 and 105 is disposed within a hole 110 of a socket
having a shape which substantially matches the external shape of
the plug 102 so that the plug 102 from the external electrical
connector 78 can slidably engage the hole 110 of the mating
internal electrical connector 86. During the engagement, the
electrical pin 108 engages the electrical split collar 106 to form
an electrical connection there between. As used herein, the terms
"plug" and "socket" are intended to refer to complimentary male and
female structures which engage each other. While the previously
described electrical connectors are most preferred, it is
contemplated that other electrical connectors can be provided. For
example, each electrical connector might contain only male or only
female structures rather than the described plug and socket
arrangement. Alternatively, the electrical connectors might be
combined with the locking connectors. Further, spring-biased
connectors might be employed to insure electrical contact when
assembled.
[0071] As best seen in FIG. 8 (the cross-sectional shape of the
tube 89 of FIG. 8 being also representative of the cross-sectional
shape of tubes 77 and 93), tube 89 is substantially circular in
cross section with the exception of a substantially flat or planar
guide surface 112 which preferably extends the length of the handle
section. The first and third handle sections 70 and 74 preferably
have outside diameters which are about equal and which are slightly
less than the inside diameter of the tube 89 of the second handle
section 72 so that the handle sections 70 and 74 can slide into the
hollow interior of the tube 89, as discussed more fully hereafter.
The internal and external electrical connectors have protrusions
114 (FIG. 13) disposed adjacent a flat 115 of the first portions
101. As discussed more fully hereafter, the protrusions 114 and
flats 115 of the external electrical connector 78 cooperate with
the locking connectors 92 and the flat portion 112 of the tube 89
to align and guide assembly of the handle sections. More
particularly, these features cooperate to align and slidably guide
external electrical connectors 78 into the ends 81 and 92 of the
first and third handle sections 70 and 74, as shown in FIGS. 7 and
11, respectively, until the first portions 101 of the external
electrical connectors bottom or engage the ends 81 and 92 of these
tubes.
[0072] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the locking connectors 80 and
92 will now be described in greater detail. The locking connector
92 has an inner surface 118 (FIG. 15), a portion 119 of which
approximates the size and shape of the cylindrical outer surface of
the tube 77 and external electrical connector 78 of first handle
section 70 and the tube 93 and external electrical connector 78 of
the third handle section 74. The inner surface 118 also
approximates the surface defined by the inside diameter of the tube
89 of the second handle section 72. Grooves 122 are disposed along
a portion of the inner surface 118 to slidably receive the
protrusions 114 of the external electrical connectors 92. A portion
of the grooves 122 are preferably defined by the track 124 which is
aligned with the flat surface 112 of the second handle section 72
when assembled, as best seen in FIG. 9. An extension 126 of the
track 124 is disposed adjacent the flat surface 112 such that the
retaining screw 83 can pass through the flat surface 112 into the
hole 128 of the extension 126 to secure the locking connector 92 to
the second handle section 72. The grooves 122 cooperate to
initially align the external electrical connector 78 with the
locking connector 92, thereby also aligning the first and third
handle sections 70 and 74 with the second handle section 72 so that
the internal and external electrical connectors 78 and 86 are
aligned for engagement of the electrical pins and collars 106 and
108. After the protrusions 114 have passed through the grooves 122
as the first and third handle sections are pushed into second
handle section 72, the engagement of the track 124 with the flat
surfaces of the first and third handle sections maintains the
relative angular alignment between the handle sections. The handle
sections are pushed together until the prongs 82 engage the holes
94. The overlap of the handle sections when assembled due to the
insertion of one handle section into another provides a handle 22
having an increased stiffness, which is especially useful in
scrubbing applications. In addition, the plug and socket
arrangement and ribs 104 of the electrical connectors, the hole and
prong locking connectors, and the flat surface of the handle tubes
all cooperate to transmit torque through the handle 22 to the mop
head 24.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 17 and in accordance with another
aspect of the present invention, the mop head 24 will now be
described in greater detail. The mop head 24 comprises the upper
plate 27, a lower plate 132 and a bumper 134 sandwiched between the
upper and lower plates. The lower plate 132 includes a
substantially planar bottom surface 136 and a plurality of
longitudinal and transverse stiffening ribs 138. The upper and
lower plates 27 and 132 are interconnected by one or more screws
which extend through the bottom surface 136 of the lower plate into
the upper plate 27. The combination of the upper and lower plates
27 and 132 creates a "torsion box" which resists flexure of the mop
head 24 during the mopping and scrubbing process while still
providing a substantially planar bottom surface 136 for attachment
of the cleaning substrate 28 as well a cavity 142 (shown in FIG.
11) between the upper and lower plates for routing of the flexible
fluid line 56 to the spray nozzle 26 attached to the mop head 24,
thereby protecting this fluid line. Yet further, the combination of
the upper and lower plates 27 and 132 having the cavity 142 there
between provides space for a pair of opposed pin holders 144 which
receive the joint pin 146. The joint pin 146 secures the universal
joint 24 to the lower plate 132 as well as provides an axis about
which the universal joint 24 can rotate. Since the universal joint
24 is directly coupled to the lower plate 132, the torque from the
handle 22 is transmitted through the universal joint to the lower
plate. The upper plate 27 provides the same function as the
stiffening ribs 138 by resisting flexure of the lower plate 132
during use.
[0074] The upper and lower plates 27 and 132 also include cut-outs
148 adjacent the trailing edges 150 of the plates. The cut-outs 148
provide an inspection window for easy viewing of the backside of a
cleaning substrate 28 attached to the floor mop 20. Inspection of
the backside of the cleaning substrate during use is advantageous
for a user of the mop 20 so that the user can determine when the
cleaning substrate has become soiled and should be replaced. The
cut-outs 148 preferably have a surface area of at least about 1
cm.sup.2 and, more preferably, between about 4 cm.sup.2 and about 8
cm.sup.2. In an alternate preferred embodiment, a portion, or the
entire surface, of the upper and lower plates 27 and 132 can be
formed from a translucent or transparent material, such as a
transparent plastic, so that the backside of the cleaning substrate
can be easily viewed by a user of the floor mop 20.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 18 and in accordance with still another
aspect of the present invention, the handle grip 76 has a handle
portion 152 and switch portion 154. The switch portion 154 is
oriented along the longitudinal axis 155 of the tubes 89 and
includes the switch 44. The switch 44 is preferably recessed below
the outer surface of the switch portion 154 to prevent inadvertent
actutation of the switch. In addition, the handle grip 76 has a
ridge 156 disposed between the handle portion 152 and the switch
portion 154. Preferably, the angle .alpha. between the longitudinal
axis 157 of the handle portion 152 and the longitudinal axis
(represented by axis 155) of the switch portion 154 is between
about 90 degrees and 140 degrees. More preferably, the angle
.alpha. between the handle portion 152 and the switch portion 154
is between about 100 degrees and about 130 degrees. Selection of
the proper angle .alpha. provides a handle which separates the
switch 44 from the gripping portion of the handle to prevent
accidental activation of the electric motor as well as providing
adequate control of the mop head and torque transmission from the
user of the floor mop 20 to the mop head, all without, generally,
having a user lift or raise his or her hand from the handle portion
152 of the handle grip 76.
[0076] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the canister 34 will now be
described in greater detail in accordance with yet another aspect
of the present invention. The canister 34 comprises opposed first
and second side walls 158 and 160 and opposed third and fourth side
walls 162 and 164. The plan cross-sectional view of the bottle is
preferably substantially in the form of a parallelogram or
rectangular in order to aid alignment of the canister 34 when it is
inserted into the canister housing 40 and to provide a more
aestetically pleasing appearance. A bottom wall 166 is
interconnected with each of the side walls to form the hollow
canister 34.
[0077] The size and shape of the side walls of the canister 34 are
adapted to cooperate with the liquid delivery system of the mop 20
so that the venting check valve 51 can open to allow venting of the
canister 34 for proper and efficient operation of the pump 36. For
example, effective priming of the pump, the time period of
continuous pump operation, and the spray characteristics of the mop
20 can be affected by the venting performance of the canister
34.
[0078] Referring again to FIG. 5, while the canister 34 is
preferably situated above the pump 36 so that a static head is
provided to the pump inlet 48 for priming of the pump, the canister
34 is also preferably substantially non-deformable (i.e., the walls
of the canister do not measurably deflect to substantially affect
generation of suction or sub-atmospheric pressure P.sub.2 within
the canister 34) at the pump generated pressure differential of
P.sub.1 minus P.sub.2. Preferably the difference between the static
pressure P.sub.2 and the pressure P.sub.1, the latter being equal
to atmospheric pressure, when the pump 36 is priming (i.e., when
the gears of the pump 36 have become immersed in the liquid
cleaning composition 35) is sufficient to open the venting check
valve 51 as quickly as possible, thereby minimizing unnecessary
current draws. In a preferred arrangement, the venting check valve
51 has an opening or cracking pressure of at least about 0.6 Kpa
and more preferably is between about 0.6 Kpa and about 20 Kpa for
ease of pump priming. In other words, the pump 36 is able to
generate a static suction pressure P.sub.2 of at least about 0.7
Kpa within the canister 34 and more preferably the static suction
pressure is between about 0.7 Kpa and about 20.1 Kpa. Most
preferably, the vent valve 86 has a cracking pressure of between
about 1 Kpa and about 10 Kpa and the pump 36 is able to generate a
static pressure P.sub.2 of between about 1.1 Kpa and about 10.1
Kpa.
[0079] In order to provide the above-described venting
characteristics, which in turn affects performance of the liquid
delivery system, the side walls of the canister are substantially
non-deformable. More preferably, at least the first and second side
walls, which are side walls with the largest surface area, have a
deflection which is less than about 0.6 mm when the gage pressure
difference between P.sub.2 and P.sub.1 is between about 10 mbar and
about 12 mbar. The deflection of the side walls is measured at the
center of each side wall using a caliper or other measuring
instrument known in the art. More preferably, the deflection of the
side walls is less than about 1.5 mm, and, most preferably the
deflection of the side walls is less than about 0.8 mm when the
gage pressure difference between P.sub.2 and P.sub.1 is between
about 10 mbar and about 12 mbar in order to provide the proper
venting of the canister 34. The stiffness of the side walls can be
increased with one or more grooves 167, which are shown in FIG. 19
as disposed on the first and second side walls 158 and 160. For a
side wall thickness of between about 0.5 mm and about 1 mm (which
provides a cost-effective bottle which is easiest to form by blow
molding, injection blow molding, or injection stretch blow
molding), the groove spacing is at least about one groove per 15 mm
along the longitudinal axis 168 of the canister 34. More
preferably, the canister 34 has between about 7 grooves and about
10 grooves on at least the first and second side walls of the
canister 34. As shown in FIG. 21, each groove 167 has depth 170 of
at least about 2 mm, a width 172 of at least about 2 mm, and a
length 174 of at least about 60 mm. The depth of the grooves
preferably varies from one end to the other end, with the middle
portion being the deepest to gain beam strength by varying the
depth of each groove. More preferably, the depth 170 is between
about 2 mm and about 4 mm and the width 172 is between about 2 mm
and about 4 mm. The groove spacing is one groove between about 10
mm and about 12 mm along the longitudinal axis 168 of the canister
34. While these arrangements are preferred, the groove dimensions
and wall thickness can be further varied in combination with the
wall shape to achieve the minimum wall deflection for use with a
vent valve having a cracking pressure of at least about 0.4 Kpa. In
addition, radially outwardly extending ribs having the previously
described groove dimensions could be used in place of the
grooves.
[0080] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a kit is provided which comprises some or all of the
disassembled-components of the mop 20. For example, the kit can
comprise one or more of the handle sections (e.g., reference
numerals 70, 72, and 74) and the subassembly which includes the mop
head 24, the universal joint 25, and the canister housing 40. The
kit can further include the canister 34 and/or one or more cleaning
sheets for use with the mop 20. Because the handle sections
incorporate severable electrical connectors, the kit can be
arranged within a package 172, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, having
a length of less than about 80 cm, a width of less than about 25
cm, and a height of less than about 15 cm. As used herein, the
phrase "severable electrical connectors" is intended to refer to
electrical connectors, which when severed or disassembled, have no
electrical continuity there between such that the handle sections
are electrically disconnected. The package 172 can be provided in
the form of a parallel-piped paper board carton, a vacuum formed
plastic container which is complimentary to the shape of the
components of the mop 22, and the like. The previously described
kit advantageously reduces shipping costs and the amount of retail
shelf space required for display and marketing of the mop 20. In
addition, the severable electrical connectors allows easy
substitution of handle sections to increase or decrease the overall
length of the handle 22 as desired. For example, for most
arrangements, the first and second handle sections each have a
length of less than about 75 cm, and, more preferably, between
about 35 cm and 75 cm while the combination of the third handle
section, the mop head, the universal joint, and the canister
housing have a folded length (as shown in FIG. 21) of less than
about 60 cm and, more preferably, less than about 50 cm.
[0081] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 25 and in accordance with yet
another aspect of the present invention, the electrical motor 38
and the gear pump 36 will now be described in greater detail. For
spraying appliances such as the floor mop 20, there is a continuing
desire to minimize the amount of space required for the various
appliance components in order to provide an appliance which is
lightweight, easy to maneuver and manipulate, and which is less
expensive to manufacture. In order to provide a compact motor and
pump combination, the electrical motor 38 is directly coupled to
the gear pump 36 by two screws 176, as best seen in FIG. 23. The
gear pump 36 comprises a pump housing 178, a drive gear 180, an
idler gear 182, a face plate 184 having the pump inlet 52, a first
seal 186 disposed between the pump housing 178 and the face plate
184, and a second seal 188 about the motor shaft 190. The pump
housing 178 is directly attached to the motor housing 192 of the
electrical motor 38 by two screws 176, wherein the drive gear 180
is disposed between the screws 176 and the drive gear 180 is
directly attached to the shaft 190 of the electrical motor 38. More
preferably, the drive gear 180 is keyed to the shaft 190 and the
shaft 190 passes through the motor casing 192. The minimum outside
diameter of the motor casing is generally dictated by the motor
configuration (e.g., shaft diameter and rotor diameter) which in
turn is driven by motor performance. In order to directly couple
the gear pump 36 to an electrical motor 38 having a power output of
between about 2 watts and about 10 watts at maximum efficiency with
a casing outside diameter of less than about 35 mm, and, more
preferably less than 30 mm, the screw spacing 194 is preferably
between about 9 mm and about 27 mm in order to securely engage the
top surface of the casing 192 of the electrical motor 38 while
avoiding contact with the motor shaft bearing. The gear pump
housing 178 also preferably engages the motor casing 192 when the
screws threadably engage the casing screw holes 196 (FIG. 23), as
best seen in FIG. 25, in order to provide a compact configuration.
Due to the compact size and shape of the electrical motor and gear
pump combination, it can be used in a variety of appliances and
therefore with a variety of aqueous liquids. More preferably, the
liquids have a pH range of between about 2 and about 14. Most
preferably, the liquids have a pH range of between about 4 and
about 11. In order to accommodate liquids having such a broad pH
range, the idle gear 182 and the drive gear 184 are formed from an
acetal copolymer or other material which is compatible with the pH
range. As used herein, the term "compatible" is intended to refer
to a polymer or other material which substantially maintains its
dimensional characteristics, weight, tensile modulus, and/or yield
strength when exposed to a liquid product for at least 6 months at
20 degrees C. to 50 degrees C. However, acetal copolymers have a
tendency to swell in aqueous liquids, thereby affecting gear
performance, such as efficiency, and potentially leading to gear
binding during use. Thus, in order to accommodate a broad pH liquid
range in a directly coupled motor and pump arrangement (i.e., where
the gear size is constrained due to the spacing of the screws)
while still providing a motor/pump efficiency of at least about 5%,
the drive gear 180 and the idle gear 182 preferably have the
following shape characteristics while accommodating a closely
spaced screw arrangement for compactness:
1 Driven and Drive Gears Number of Teeth 14 Module 0.5 Pressure
Angle 20 degrees Tooth Thickness 0.785 mm Outside Diameter 7.95 mm
Root Diameter 6.033 mm Tooth Tip Radius 0.203 mm
[0082] In addition, the flow path 198 of the gear pump 36 is
preferably downwardly curved away from the screws 176 such that the
inlet 200 and the outlet 202 of the gear pump are not tangential
with the contact line 204 of the idle and drive gears. This
advantageously provides a configuration where the screws are
disposed outside the flow pump path, as shown, while accommodating
the screw spacing limitations of the directly coupled gear pump.
While the directly coupled electrical motor and gear pump 36 have
been described herein with respect to the floor mop 20 for
simplicity and clarity, it will be appreciated that this
arrangement can be used in other electrically operated liquid
sprayers. For instance, this arrangement can be incorporated in a
hand-held sprayer, other types of floor cleaning implements, home
care appliances, etc.
[0083] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
and with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, the battery cradle 43
incorporates at least one, and more preferably two, prongs 206
which are sized to prevent electrical contact between the batteries
and the electrical pickups 208 (FIG. 10) adjacent the battery
cradle 43 when the batteries are incorrectly inserted into the
cradle 43. This can prevent inadvertent reverse operation of the
electrical motor 38 which can confuse a user of the floor mop and
return liquid or air into the canister 34. The prongs 206 have a
gap 209 there between which allows the positive terminal 210 (which
is usually in the form of a button having a diameter between about
3 mm and about 5 mm) of the battery to pass there through and
contact one of the electrical pickups 208, as shown in FIG. 26.
However, when the battery is inserted incorrectly such that the
negative terminal 212 is disposed adjacent the prongs 206, the
prongs separate the negative terminal 212 from the electrical
pickup 206. The gap 209 between the prongs is between about 5 mm
and about 14 mm and the prongs have a height 216 which is between
about 2 mm and about 14 mm, as best seen in FIG. 28. Thus, when the
batteries are properly inserted in the first position as show in
FIG. 26, the contact surface of the positive terminal 210 is
substantially planar with the contact surface of the negative
terminal 212, but when the batteries are improperly inserted in the
second position shown in FIG. 27, the contact surface of the
positive terminal 210 is disposed below the contact surface of the
negative terminal 212 such that both a positive battery terminal
and a negative battery terminal do not cooperatively contact the
electrical pickups 208.
[0084] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of
the invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and
description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications or
variations are possible and contemplated in light of the above
teachings by those skilled in the art, and the embodiments
discussed were chosen and described in order to best illustrate the
principles of the invention and its practical application. It is
intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims
appended hereto.
* * * * *